Speaking of AllModern.com, check the CSN Stores Facebook page for daily holiday deals and giveaways from their many online stores.

Oo, here’s a nice little something to go with a book gift or on their own: Book City Jackets has some gorgeous new releases, and they’re offering free domestic shipping on any order of two sets or more and $5 off orders of $50 or more. Enter discount code BCJ2009.

Gessato has some lovely gift ideas, including some that would be great for hard-to-buy-for men, and you’ll get free shipping on orders of $120 or more.

Here on Shelterrific we’ve put much thought into trees around the holidays. We’ve desired real trees, fancied untraditional and aluminum trees, wondered about black trees, and even entertained the great “real vs. fake” debate. Now I present for your consideration the cardboard Christmas tree. Made from 100% recycled cardboard, this mini tree from PopDeluxe is big on irony. (If itâ€™s made from real trees, it counts as a real tree, right?) Perfect for crafting, its radial design also allows for a more compact 180 degree configuration, which might be a good alternative for those of us who, I donâ€™t know, may or may not be seriously considering displaying a live tree on the fire escape for lack of better spatial options. Even less room? Try the smaller Snowflake Tree, now on sale! — Sarah C.

I have a long list of standard Chicago experiences handy for when tourists visit: the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, deep dish pizza, and a visit to the Bleeding Heart Bakery (1955 W. Belmont; 773-327-6934). The organic bakery boasts an overwhelming array of vegan and gluten-free treats, but fear not, stubborn carbovores — there are plenty of scrumptious traditional goodies for you, too. More punk rock than crunchy hippie, BHB features an extravagant array of cupcakes painted with neon frosting in decadent flavors like Mexican hot chocolate, mango chile, dulce de leche, red velvet, and peanut butter bacon. Their cakes have gained some notoriety, too — co-owner Michelle Garcia has appeared on the Food Network’s Extreme Cakes (dummy reproductions of their winning cakes and their medals sit above the door). Visit their website for more information, the latest cupcake flavors, or just to drool. — Katie D.

Thanksgiving is by far my favorite holiday. Exactly why that is, I’m not quite sure. Maybe it’s the stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. Or maybe it’s the drama-free memories of our family and close friends clustered around a too-tiny table enjoying a meal together. It could be how every year, without fail, my dad and I would slip into a l-tryptophan nap on the couch watching a Mel Brooks movie before pie was even served. Or it could be the simple act of gathering loved ones together over dinner and giving thanks for what the year has brought us. A whole holiday based on appreciating what you have is a beautiful thing, indeed. Of course, now we need to know what you think: what makes your turkey day special? — Megan B.

About Shelterrific

This is site dedicated not to homemaking, but to home loving: Decorating, cooking, entertaining, organizing, gardening and making the most out of the places we call home. Shelterrific began in 2006 ... More

Got a Question?

Got a home or house question you need help with? Email us (with a jpg, please) and we'll ask our community of readers to help you! Write to letters (at) shelterrific dotcom. See past "help!" questions